Google search page logo makes statement on Russia anti-gay law

San Francisco – Google updated its search page logo on Thursday to reflect what many took to be a statement about anti-gay law in Russia, where the Winter Olympic Games are being held. As reported by the Associated Press (AP), the logo illustration depicted athletes in various activities like skiing and skating against a rainbow backdrop.

As noted in the report, several U.S. companies have spoken out against the law, which restricts gay-rights activities. Google has not offered a comment about the new Google Doodle, but placed below it a section of the Olympic charter that reads, “The practice of sport is a human right. Every individual must have the possibility of practicing sport, without discrimination of any kind.”

Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin is quoted by the AP as stating of the image, “Google has made a clear and unequivocal statement that Russia’s anti-LGBT discrimination is indefensible… Now it’s time for each and every remaining Olympic sponsor to follow their lead. The clock is ticking, and the world is watching.”